Maid of the Loch
Explore the Maid of the Loch, the last paddle steamer built in the UK, undergoing restoration at Balloch Pier.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Tours and volunteer work happen
Maid of the Loch
Best Time
Tours and volunteer work happen
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the Maid of the Loch, the last paddle steamer built in the UK, undergoing restoration at Balloch Pier.
"Highly recommend the 'Hard Hat Tour' for an informative and inspiring look at this historic vessel's revival."
🎯 Book Hard Hat Tour
Highly recommended! Informative tours run by passionate volunteers. Book ahead for weekends.
☕ Cafe Stop
Enjoy coffee or hot chocolate at the cafe with views of the loch.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hard Hat Tour
Explore the ship's inner workings with knowledgeable volunteers. See restoration in progress and learn its history.
Art Deco Interior
Admire the stunning, original Art Deco-inspired interiors, a testament to classic ship design.
Paddle Steamer Experience
Step aboard the last paddle steamer built in the UK and imagine its glory days on Loch Lomond.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Restoration Tour
Support the Restoration Effort
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Hard Hat Tour
Highly recommended! Informative tours run by passionate volunteers. Book ahead for weekends. +1
☕ Cafe Stop
Enjoy coffee or hot chocolate at the cafe with views of the loch.
🚶♀️ Explore Balloch Pier
Wander the pier area and enjoy the scenic Loch Lomond surroundings.
💰 Support Restoration
Your visit and purchases help fund the ongoing restoration efforts.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Hard Hat Tour
Highly recommended! Informative tours run by passionate volunteers. Book ahead for weekends. +1
☕ Cafe Stop
Enjoy coffee or hot chocolate at the cafe with views of the loch.
🚶♀️ Explore Balloch Pier
Wander the pier area and enjoy the scenic Loch Lomond surroundings.
💰 Support Restoration
Your visit and purchases help fund the ongoing restoration efforts.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture stunning shots of this historic vessel against the Loch Lomond backdrop.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Maid of the Loch's 'Hard Hat Tour' for its informative and engaging nature, highlighting the passion of the volunteer guides. The ongoing restoration is seen as a vital community effort, with many hoping to see the paddle steamer return to cruising Loch Lomond. While the tours are a highlight, some visitors note the limitations due to ongoing work.
"Had a fantastic Hard Hat Tour. It was a really fascinating 1hr+, where we got taken around the entire ship and winding room. We got told all about what they are doing, what their plans are and what they have done so far. The tour guide was very knowledgeable and answered all my questions about the Maid and Paddle Steamers in general.
It was great value at £15 and the tour group was small, with just three of us.
I look forward to seeing the Maid's progress and I will visit again."
Livi Crazy Music
"I attended the Hard Hat tour and would thoroughly recommend. Really informative and interesting tour run by wonderful volunteers."
Joanne McBride
"We went after hours and had cafe across from the ship. Hopefully there will be a day when it can be restored to its former splendors and cruise across Loch Lomond."
Celeste Chau
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Maid of the Loch is located at Balloch Pier, Loch Lomond. You can reach Balloch by car, with parking available nearby. Alternatively, Balloch train station is a short walk from the pier, making it easily accessible via public transport from Glasgow and other surrounding areas.
Yes, there are several parking options available near Balloch Pier. It's advisable to check local signage for the most up-to-date information on parking availability and charges.
While the 'Hard Hat Tour' is highly recommended for an in-depth experience, you can also visit the Maid of the Loch to enjoy the cafe and explore the accessible areas of the ship.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The 'Hard Hat Tour' typically costs around £15 per person and lasts over an hour. It's a great value for the detailed insight provided by the knowledgeable volunteers. +1
Tours are primarily held on weekends, as volunteers dedicate weekdays to the restoration work. It's essential to check the official website or contact them directly for the most current tour schedule and to book your spot in advance.
Yes, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for the 'Hard Hat Tour', as tour groups are small and tend to fill up quickly, particularly on weekends. +1
Information on discounts is not widely publicized, but the current ticket price is considered great value for the experience. It's always worth inquiring directly with the Maid of the Loch team about potential concessions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can take a 'Hard Hat Tour' to see the restoration work, admire the Art Deco interiors, visit the onboard cafe, and learn about the history of this iconic paddle steamer. 
Due to its ongoing restoration and historic nature, full accessibility may be limited. The 'Hard Hat Tour' involves navigating various parts of the ship, which may include stairs. It's best to contact the Maid of the Loch directly to discuss specific accessibility needs.
Yes, photography is generally welcomed, especially to capture the unique Art Deco interiors and the restoration progress.
Built in 1953, the Maid of the Loch was the last paddle steamer built in the UK and operated on Loch Lomond until 1981. Volunteers have been working on its restoration since the 1990s.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe onboard the Maid of the Loch that serves coffee, hot chocolate, and other refreshments. It's a great spot to relax and enjoy the views.
The cafe offers locally sourced produce, providing a taste of the region. It's a perfect place to grab a warm drink and a snack while visiting the ship.
📸 📸 Photography
The Maid of the Loch itself offers many photographic opportunities, both externally against the Loch Lomond backdrop and internally. The surrounding Balloch Pier area also provides excellent vantage points.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations and permissions. It's advisable to check with the relevant authorities and the Maid of the Loch management before flying a drone in the area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the tours, the onboard cafe provides a relaxed setting for families to enjoy refreshments with a view. The novelty of being on a historic paddle steamer itself is often a hit with younger visitors. While the restoration means some areas might have access limitations, the overall experience is memorable and educational.
❤️ Couples & History Buffs
The 'Hard Hat Tour' is a must for those who appreciate the intricacies of maritime history and engineering. The passionate guides share fascinating anecdotes and detailed information about the ship's past and its ambitious restoration, making for a deeply engaging experience.
📸 Photographers
+1Internally, the Art Deco elements offer unique and stylish compositions. Capturing the details of the restoration work, such as welding or the steam winch in operation, also provides compelling visual narratives.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Restoration Journey
Visitors can witness this dedication firsthand through the popular 'Hard Hat Tours'. These tours offer an intimate look at the complex engineering and craftsmanship involved in restoring a paddle steamer. You'll see welders at work, learn about the challenges of preserving such a large historic artifact, and hear inspiring stories from the volunteers who are making it all happen.
The ultimate goal is to see the Maid of the Loch once again cruise the waters of Loch Lomond. While this ambitious project takes time and significant funding, each visit and contribution brings this dream closer to reality. The PS Maid of the Loch is a living museum, offering a unique glimpse into the past and a hopeful vision for the future of Loch Lomond's maritime history.
A Glimpse into Art Deco Elegance
During your visit, whether on a tour or simply enjoying the cafe, take time to appreciate the intricate details of the decor. The design elements reflect the glamour and style of the mid-20th century, offering a stark contrast to modern vessel aesthetics. It’s a beautiful reminder of a different time in shipbuilding and passenger travel.
The preservation of these original features is a crucial aspect of the restoration. Volunteers are dedicated to maintaining the authenticity of the Maid of the Loch, ensuring that future generations can experience its unique Art Deco ambiance. It’s this blend of historical significance and aesthetic beauty that makes the Maid of the Loch a truly special attraction.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit